A Traveller's History of Paris

By Robert Cole and robert-cole

Book Overview

A Traveller's History of Paris brings the city's vibrant past to life, tracing its transformation from a humble Roman settlement, Lutetia Parisiorum, to the thriving and world-renowned capital it is today. Blending rich anecdotes with essential facts, this compact and accessible guide explores the people, events, and places that have shaped Paris over two millennia.

From Notre-Dame to Modernism, from the Metro to Montmartre, it offers readers insightful explorations of landmarks, culture, and daily life across the ages. Complete with a detailed chronology, historical maps, and line drawings, this is the perfect companion for curious travelers and history lovers alike.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1623715903
• ISBN13: 9781623715908
• Release Date: January 2026
• Publisher: Interlink Books
• Length: 320 Pages
• Weight: 0.48 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 5.0" x 7.8"

Customer Reviews

A Historical Glimpse into Paris

I first encountered this book in a college bookstore among the texts. It was required reading for a curriculum-based trip to France. I was surprised to find that though nestled among texts, this book was a refreshingly light read with insightful tidbits into Paris' grand history. Punctuated with simple sketches for illustrations, the book offers a great deal of behind-the-scenes information which enriches any trip to Paris let along anyone with a crush on the City of Light. I frequently include the book in my packing for overseas trips because it makes fun reading among travel companions as we tour the city or to discuss over a cup of café. The history in this book is simplified enough to be a pleasant read (not overwhelming or at all like stereo instructions), but in-depth enough to make you feel like an expert. It really enriches any visit to Paris to understand the city's history and this book is a great way to get an overview of what Paris has gone through over the ages.

Read this book before you go

Like most people, I didn't pay a lot of attention in world history class. If you ever slept through a lecture on the French Revolution, you should read this book. It looks dry, but is actually very witty; the author has a fine sense of irony. You can't help but snicker at the author's detail of the revolutionaries storming the Bastille, only to find just 6 people locked up... or finding out how Robespierre received a substantial award in college for excellent academic performance. A good overview of Parisian history from 53 BC to the present. The book also includes a section on the history of major monuments and museums, such as Notre Dame de Paris and the Eiffel Tower.